Imagine trying to unlock your door when suddenly the key breaks in the lock. Half is in your hand, and the other half remains inside. It’s utterly frustrating, and it could happen anytime.
Relax! You’re not alone; many have gone through this. Keys age and locks get tighter. But there are smart ways to handle this without getting into any more trouble.
In this blog, the top locksmiths in Kitchener will guide you through the entire process of extracting a key from a lock, helping you stay calm, secure, and ready to get back inside.
1. Don’t Try to Pull It Out Right Away
Most people want to grab something: tweezers, a paperclip, maybe a pen to try and pull the broken key out. It seems like it ought to be easy. However, it is likely that you will only press the key deeper if it is just within the cylinder.
But unless the broken part is really close to the edge, you might push it in deeper. If the lock is already old or not lined up right, this could also scratch the pins inside. Then a small fix turns into needing a whole new lock.
2. Don’t Try to Turn the Lock
Another thing people try is using the broken key piece to turn the lock. It looks like the full key. But without the full key blade, the force you use isn’t right. That can break little parts inside the lock or jam it worse.
We’ve even seen cases where trying to turn it cracked the whole lock housing. What should’ve been a simple job turned into a big, expensive fix. Not worth the risk.
Why Do Keys Break So Easily?
Keys bend and weaken over time, especially old ones or ones made from soft metal. If you had to wiggle your key to make it work, that’s a sign it was already wearing out.
Also, if your locks haven’t been cleaned or oiled, there’s more resistance when you turn the key. And that pressure eventually causes the key to break.
You Might Not Need a New Lock
Just because your key broke, doesn’t mean you ruined your lock.
Our Broken Key Extraction service at MASTERKEY LOCKSMITH Glass and Doors, carefully removes the stuck piece without damaging your lock. After that, we test it and let you know if it’s still good or needs fixing.
If replacement is necessary, we’ll explain options honestly.
Keep Spare Keys And Check Them!
Having a backup can save you a lot of trouble. Don’t wait until your main one is too worn out to use.
If your key looks smooth in places or feels thin in the middle, it’s time to get a copy. But make sure to copy a good key; not a damaged one. Copying a worn key just passes the problem to the next one. We offer expert key copying services in Kitchener.
Here’s what to do next to avoid making things worse!
If your key just broke inside the lock, take a deep breath. Resist the urge to poke around with random tools or force the key.
Instead, call the best locksmith in Kitchener, Masterkey Locksmith Glass and Doors. We’ll send our professional mobile locksmith in Kitchener fast, usually within an hour, to fix the problem.
While we’re there, we’ll check the lock, key, and surrounding area to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Sometimes, just a little cleaning or a better key copy makes all the difference.
Conclusion
A broken key can be annoying, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Stay calm,and call Masterkey Locksmith Glass and Doors. We’re here to provide fast, friendly, and affordable service whenever you need us.
